The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for snow this weekend, advising Brits to prepare by stocking up on certain items.
Heavy snowfall is anticipated across the region on Saturday and Sunday, which could cause severe disruption and possible power cuts. Consequently, the Met Office has provided guidance on how to handle a snowstorm.
They have given advice on what to do if you need to drive, suggesting that you plan your route carefully and check for any delays or road closures. Before setting off, take extra time to inspect your car, checking your wipers, tyres and screenwash, and pack some essentials.
These should include an ice scraper, de-icer, a large torch so you don’t have to rely on your phone, a paper road atlas, an in-car phone charger, warm clothes and blankets, high-vis clothing, jump leads, an empty fuel can, food and drink, a shovel, warning triangles and sunglasses. While driving, exercise caution and use dipped headlights.
Accelerate gently, using low revs and shifting to higher gears as quickly as possible. Starting in second gear can help prevent wheel slip, and it’s important to maintain a safe and steady speed, keeping a good distance from other drivers.
The Met Office advises maintaining a steady speed when driving uphill, allowing ample space for other drivers. When descending, use a low gear and avoid braking unless necessary.
In case of skidding, steer into it without removing your hands from the wheel or slamming on the brakes.
Stockpile three items
As part of their advice, the Met Office have urged people to stock up on three key things in their homes. These are torches and batteries, candles with matches and lighters and plenty of blankets and warm clothing, LeedsLive reports.
Getting cut off
If you do get cut off, you should keep your thermostat set to one temperature during the day and night, turn off any electrical heaters and put out any fires before going to bed and make sure your pets are comfortable, with warm places to stay in the cold weather. To prevent frozen pies, you should open kitchen and cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate.
You should also stay indoors, wearing loose fitting lightweight warm clothing rather than bulky clothes. You should not use a hob or oven to heat your home as this can increase carbon monoxide levels. If you need support you can call the British Red Cross Support Line on 0808 196 3651.
Candles, matches and lighters
In case of any powercuts, you should also stock up on candles with matches or lighters, torches and batteries and a mobile phone power pack. If your power does go out, you should switch off all electrical appliances which should not be left unattended, leave a light on so you know when the powercut ends, check to see if your neighbours are safe and if they have a powercut too to make sure it is not your fusebox and wrap up warm, closing internal doors to keep the heat in.
Portable heaters can be used if the heating is not working and you can call 105 for information, as it is a free service for those in England, Scotland and Wales.
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